Publisher’s Platform: What you need to know about Salmonella during the Basil Outbreak

As of April 17, 2024, a total of 12 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella have been reported from 7 states – Florida, Georgia, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, Rhode Island and Wisconsin. Illnesses started on dates ranging from February 11, 2024, to April 2, 2024. Of 11 people with information available, 1 person has been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.

Of 12 people interviewed, 10 (83%) reported shopping at Trader Joe’s. Seven sick people reported buying or likely buying organic basil in 2.5 oz clamshell-style containers from Trader Joe’s. Additionally, traceback data collected by FDA determined that Infinite Herbs, LLC, in Miami, Florida, was the supplier of the 2.5-oz packages of organic basil sold at Trader Joe’s stores.

While this investigation is ongoing, do not eat Infinite Herbs organic basil sold at Trader Joe’s stores in those 29 states and Washington DC. The basil was sold in 2.5 oz clamshell-style packages. Investigators are working to determine if additional products may be contaminated.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)